GREENWICH, Conn. – Greenwich officials issued a voluntary evacuation order of the immediate coastal areas Wednesday as a nor'easter gained strength and intensity, according to a statement.

Residents along the coast were being warned to brace for more surging tides Wednesday night with sea walls weakened after Hurricane Sandy.

"Keep in mind that Hurricane Sandy has damaged many sea walls and in some areas has changed the outline of coastal areas and inlets," the statement said. "The high tide flooding we are all accustomed to during previous
storms may be very different with Winter Storm Athena."

High tide is scheduled for 5:01 p.m. Wednesday and 5:31 a.m. Thursday. Winds are expected to intensify Wednesday night, reaching sustained speeds of 25 to 30 mph with gusts of 45 to 60 mph.

With trees and structures already affected by Hurricane Sandy, there is significant potential for wind-related damage, officials said. The town encouraged residents to stay indoors during the storm.

The Town’s Emergency Operations Center will remain open throughout the storm. Greenwich officials have requested that utility companies, including Connecticut Light & Power, keep resources in town to make emergency repairs if required.

Greenwich's FEMA office will be closed until Thursday, when a damage assessment can be made.